Jason Momoa is Officially the DCU’s Lobo: A Risky but Potentially Rewarding Casting Choice
Jason Momoa, star of *Aquaman* and *Game of Thrones*, has officially been cast as Lobo in the new DC Universe (DCU). The announcement, made via Momoa’s Instagram post and confirmed by DCU head James Gunn, sees the actor stepping into the role of the intergalactic bounty hunter. Lobo will debut in 2026’s *Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow*, alongside Milly Alcock as Supergirl, under the direction of Craig Gillespie.
First introduced in DC Comics in 1983, Lobo gained significant popularity in the 1990s after a reinvention that presented him as a stylized, biker-gang-esque mercenary. This revamp launched his own successful comic series in 1990, solidifying his place within the DC Universe. He even had a prior live-action appearance in Syfy’s *Krypton*, portrayed by Emmett J. Scanlan.
Momoa’s casting is arguably inspired. He’s publicly expressed his enthusiasm for the character, and a striking physical resemblance to Lobo is undeniable. Furthermore, his extensive experience playing a major comic book icon, as Aquaman in the previous DC Extended Universe (DCEU), is a significant asset. Momoa’s *Aquaman* (2018) was a massive success, grossing over $1.1 billion, making him arguably the most popular face of the DCEU.
However, his close association with the now-defunct DCEU raises questions. Will audiences readily accept him as a different DC character so soon after his Aquaman portrayal, particularly given the recent release of *Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom* (2023)?
The precedent, however, suggests this is entirely possible. Actors frequently transition between comic book universes. Recent examples include Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Kraven the Hunter after playing Quicksilver in the MCU) and the highly successful transition of Chris Evans from the Fantastic Four to Captain America. Even cross-overs between Marvel and DC have been well-received, with actors like Michael Keaton and Christian Bale playing villains in the MCU after their Batman roles.
The key difference here is the proximity to Momoa’s last major DC role. His strong connection to the DCEU, including a cameo in the DCU-bound *Peacemaker* series, might initially cause some confusion regarding canon. However, this could also be an opportunity to win back viewers disillusioned with the previous DC regime. Momoa’s charisma and acting talent could help overcome any initial reservations. The successful integration of actors like Russell Crowe (Zeus and Superman’s father in different franchises) and the anticipated return of Robert Downey Jr. to the MCU as Doctor Doom further demonstrate audience acceptance of actors portraying different roles in different universes.
Ultimately, a distinct look, thanks to alien makeup, should help solidify Momoa’s portrayal of Lobo. Audiences are likely to embrace his reinvention, much like the character’s own successful reimagining in the 1990s. The stage is set for Jason Momoa to successfully redefine himself in the DCU.